China shows grave concern over deployment of THAAD missile by US in ROK

BEIJING: China on Monday expressed grave concern over the possible deployment of the THAAD missile defense system by the US in the ROK.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei’s said here at regular press conference Regular Press Conference that the coverage of the THAAD missile defense system, especially the monitoring range of its X-band radar, goes far beyond the defense need of the Korean Peninsula and will reach deep into the Asian hinterland.

It will damage directly China’s strategic security interests and also harm security interests of other countries in the region. China’s stance is clear enough that we firmly oppose any countries’ attempt to infringe China’s strategic security interests with the excuse of the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue.

As a responsible country, the spokesman said, “China will remain committed to advancing denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula, upholding peace and stability on the Peninsula, and resolving relevant issues through dialogues and consultations. Meanwhile, we will not allow our legitimate national security interests to be harmed. China’s legitimate national security interests must be guarded and guaranteed effectively.

We believe that the focus of the Peninsula nuclear issue is on the US and the DPRK. We are willing to urge both countries to be seated, talk and discuss how to address each other’s reasonable concerns so as to finally achieve the goal we all hope.”